Photos show Plainwell school bus driving over tracks in front of oncoming train

by NEWSCHANNEL 3

A Plainwell school bus driver is on administrative leave following the social media posting of photos showing the bus crossing railroad tracks in front of a locomotive (at left) -- and with the warning lights glowing red. (Contributed/Herb Theodore)

A Plainwell school bus driver is on administrative leave following the social media posting of photos showing the bus crossing railroad tracks in front of a locomotive -- and with the warning lights glowing red.

The photos were posted on Facebook by Herb Theodore, who happened to be driving by the railroad crossing at the time.

"It's sad, sad that it happened," Theodore said. "I hat to see anyone lose their job, but then again do you want someone that's going to create a reckless act driving your kids?"

Matthew Montage, the superintendent of schools for Plainwell, said in an emailed response to Newschannel 3 that he was aware of the incident, and that the issue is under investigation.

"We take this matter very seriously and are investigating the incident using a variety of resources," Montage said. "Upon the findings of the investigation we will determine our next steps with the driver. The driver is currently on administrative leave. Safety of our students is our primary concern and Plainwell Schools will do everything we can to ensure that all students are safe at all times."

The driver has worked for the district for about 20 years, school officials said. He was driving a bus load of elementary school children on an afternoon run when the photos were taken.